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One of Victoria's little secrets is that if you're not careful, you'll find yourself enrolled in Secret Escapes, to the tune of $99.95.
Debra of North Las Vegas NV (02/23/08)
My Ma.r' 08 VS account statement showed a $109.95 charge for VS Escapes dated 1 Feb '08 with a number below the charge to 'call with questions'. When I called the number, Ricard told me that I signed up for the service on the internet. I said I did not. Ricard said that the charge would be removed within 2 or 3 days. I said, How would I know? How could I check? He repeated the above statement. Apparently he did not realize that I was referring to my VS statement and not my bank. I then emailed VS with the complaint, requesting verification of the removal of the charge. I already carry a hefty balance and am offended that I would be paying 22.8% on 100+ that I DID NOT AUTHORIZE.
Linda W with VS emailed me back within 24 hours stating that my account would be credited, and I would be notified at that time. I have actively used my VS charge for approx. 10 years and could very possibly have missed this charge in the past. I'm busy and do not always inspect every bill and every charge. Apparently, that is what VS Escapes banks on (pun intended).
Because I caught this illegal activity it probably cost me around $2 in interest. However, I will have to research past years to find out if I missed it then. If so, then it would be approx. $125.00 per year. Multiply that by the number of VS customers using VS charge or debit or other bank cards, and looks like someone is getting rich and needs to be slapped with a class action suit.
Darlene of Summerland Key FL (02/07/08)
I just happened to review my bank account on line and noticed an unauthorized charge. I called the number associated with it and they were Victoria Secrets Escapes Travel. After several minutes, I got through to someone that verified my information, and I informed them I did not sign up or authorize the charge, and since it was still pending they were going to issue a refund. I am very careful about ordering things on-line through the internet, and this is the first time this has ever happened. I think this is fraudulent. They didn't even have my correct address.
I had planned to go buy a new outfit, but my account was overdrawn, I am hoping since it is in the pending stage that I do not get charged for 3 overdraft charges at $35.00 each. (and my money better be back in my account) which would be a total of $214.00
Vanessa of Pasadena CA (01/23/08)
VSEscapes put an unauthorized charge on my credit card for $109.95. I have never signed up for their membership and had no knowledge of this charge until I looked at my credit card charges.
Theresa of Rochester NY (11/11/07)
I received a flyer from Victorias Secret telling me that unless I made a phone call, I would automatically be charged $109.95 for an automatic enrollment in vescapes?. I never signed up for this, have never received any membership or materials from them. When I looked at my past charge account activity, sure enough, I was charged $109.95 on 11/29/06. I was not able to look back further to see if I have incurred charges other years, so I have no idea how long they have been deducting this from my charge card. I have never received any membership materials , not did I have any idea that I joined anything.
Helen of Rockford IL (11/05/07)
Apparently when I purchased a suit from Victoria's secret back in 2003 I was enrolled in the vscapes program which I don't remember consenting to, nor did I ever get a membership packet or anything. Apparently I got a 30 day free trial that I had to cancel if I didn't want. They have continued to bill my credit card every year since then, but because I have gone paperless, I'm sorry to say I don't always view the statements, but I do have auto pay.
I have been charged 109.00 a year since 2003, plus interest. I never received a membership packet, nor did I ever use the services. They have an address that I haven't had in 3 years.
Leslie of Memphis TN (06/20/07)
Apparently, I signed up for Victoria's Secret Sweet Escapes when purchasing a bathing suit in 2003. I remember none of this, of course. I was billed for the past three years, and just noticed a debit on my bank statement for $109.95. I called the 800 number and spoke with a man who was trying to convince me that I would REALLY enjoy the benefits of this program.
I explained to him, shouldn't I have been experiencing the benefits of this program for the past FOUR years? I had never gotten one piece of mail from them! He said, obviously this whole situation is news to you, and I said YES it is! I need my money back!
Toni of Lewiston, ID (04/11/07)
Just received my Victoria's Secret bill and had a charge for VS Escapes. I haven't ordered or purchased anything for a long time so I called the number and was told that VS Escapes was something I signed up for on the Victoria's Secret website while possibly making a purchase. They say they are not affiliated, so couldn't give me much info.
They had no problem taking off the $109.95 charge on my current bill, but when she told me this was a renewal I was shocked. I asked her when I was billed prior. She told me April 06. She indicated that I would have known full well that I signed up and would have been sent a welcome packet (said one was sent to my address). I do not recall EVER signing up for any travel services nor did I receive a welcome packet.
I checked back through statements and sure enough the charge was on there from last April. Since I had other charges my husband did not know to ask me and apparently just paid the $99.95 bill.
Meredith of Jamaica Plain MA (03/27/07)
They apparently offered me a 30-day free trial which I accepted (I am told) and then they forgot to mention that if I did not call a certain number (which of course they also did not give me) that I would be charged about $100 each year ($99.95 last year and $109.95 this year). I did not pay attention to my credit card statement last year and missed the charge so you can imagine my surprise this year.
I never received any benefit (apparently I should have received a few coupons - totally worth $200 obviously) and I also NEVER gave them my credit card number. They used the credit card number I gave them to purchase something from them. Victoria Secret should be ashamed. I was once a loyal customer and will now be going anywhere else!
Dean of Lake Villa IL (03/10/07)
$109.95 charge from VS ESCAPES just appeared on our credit card on 3/8/2007. Nothing has been purchased from VS. Called the number and found out that this is from a 30-day trial for discounts on other items that comes from their web site.
This is like stealing our money without us knowing. If we didn't look at the credit card statement carefully they would have gotten away with it.
Jennifer of Boca Raton FL (03/07/07)
I placed an order months ago on Victoria Secret.com and was automatically signed up for a travel/enterntainment club that I did not agree to which included a $109.25 membership fee. The only reason I found out about fee was becuase it showed up on my statement. I did not receive any information via email or postal mail regarding the club with any type of memebership number or anything at all regarding the benefits of being a memeber. Nor did the rep I spoke to on the phone give me any information. The cost was not included in the check out, so I assume it is not affiliated directly with the web site. I did call customer service and the rep did agree to remove the charge but not until after he decided to have an attitude and tell me that I did in fact agree to the fee. A third party affiliate should not be able to charge a credit card without proper authorization.
P
Lorrie of Grass Valley, CA (02/24/07)
We found we'd been charged $109.95 by VSESCAPES three days ago. I happen to have a Victoria Secrets credit card, which I use for purchase in that store, but pay it off regularly. This $109.95 charge was for some kind of club membership that I never authorized and the charge was made to a Visa card that's not even associated with my victoria secrets card.
I phoned Victoria Secret's customer service and they said that VS Escapes is an affiliate...shouldn't Victoria Secret be held responsible for this fraud/scam?
Megan of Chicago IL (02/18/07)
This company charged my credit card $109.95 for a membership to their club. I have never applied to this club, nor have I ever authorized any charges to be paid to this company. I haven't even purchased anything from Victoria’s Secret in about a year. Unfortunately for them I keep meticulous financial records.
A of Raleigh NC (02/07/07)
I have a $109.95 charge on my account for VS Escapes. I have no idea what this is but am trying to reach VS to speak to someone. I just found this website and am appalled at what I see - so many people have had the same problem! VS needs to do something about this!
Jennifer of Peoria, AZ (01/28/07)
Upon paying my credit card bill, I noticed a $109.95 charge from Victoria's Secret Escapes on my card. I have not purchased anything from VS in months, and I have never heard of Victoria's Secret Escapes. I called the number on my statement and VS Escaps was closed. I called my credit card company to repot this and did some internet research, only to find this scam is not new.
I then called Victoria's Secret and they said they are not affiliated with this company, which would seem to be an apparent lie if you read the complaints on the Consumer Affairs website.
I am being assessed interest charges until this charge is taken off my account. Maybe VS Escapes would like to pay this as well.
Barbara of Gloversville, NY (01/28/07)
I just checked my credit card online and discovered a charge of $109.95 I never authorized. I googled the associated phone number and found out Victoria Secret Escapes has a number of complaints against it.
Wondering how this happened and thinking about the information I read from other complaints, I reviewed my bills for the last 12 months and sure enough, they stole $99.95 from me last year and I never caught it.
Diann of Sioux Falls, SD (01/14/07)
I got a charge on my check card for $101.93 that I did not authorize. When I looked on my statement VSESCAPES was on the statement along with the charge. I looked this up on the internet & found that they do this often.
Their unauthorized charge on my card caused me an overdraft charge and I could not pay my monthly bills until I got paid again.
Angela of Gonzales, LA (11/25/06)
I just opened my statement and found an unauthorized charged from victorias secret escape was charged to my account for $99.95. I contacted the number I was given and was hung up on 3 times.
Francis of Clearwater FL (11/13/06)
A charge from VS Escapes appeared on my Discover Bill for 109.95. I never authorized this. I googled VS Escapes and found that hundreds of others have been scammed by this company. I disputed the charge with Discover. Later, I searched through my credit card charges and found an identical charge from one year ago (which I did not, at the time, realize was fraudulent). I also found a charge from MVI Escapes Travel from 3 years ago for $89.95. Again, since my wife and both use the same account, I didn't realize that this was a fraudulent charge at the time. Now I realize that the companies are somehow linked and they simply hope you will just pay the charge. Never again!
Samantha of Surprise, AZ (09/26/06)
I just received a bill from a credit card that I haven't used in well over a year and there's a charge for $109.95 from some cheesy rewards program that is part of Victoria's Secret. I don't even remember the last time I shopped there, and when I did I didn't use this card... so HOW did they get this card number?
I called the number and of course it's after business hours - this only gives me a whole night to really get angry and ruin someone's day tomorrow.
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Richard of New Windsor MD (09/11/06)
I keep getting billed once a year for $109.95. I haven't bought anything for years.
Eugenia of Sarasota, FL (09/04/06)
VS charged me $99.95 for a AP9VSESCAPES. I've never bought at VS and now that charge appeared in my credit account.
I'm so worried this is happening and can keep happening, someone should do something. I call my bank and they said they'll erase it, but how insecure is this. I can't believe it.
Ariel of Dana Point CA (07/20/06)
I haven't bought anything from VC, for over a year, and all of a sudden I get this wierd charge for $99.95 to AP9*VSESCAPES. When I call the 888 number shown on the charge I get a fax machine, then I yahoo search AP9*VSESCAPES, and it sends me to this sight, where I learn that this is going on everywhere. I am going to contact my credit card company, and victoria secret, all I have to say is this better getter resolved fast, and I will never shop here again.
I have to pay interest on this charge until they resolve it.
Rachael of Norridge IL (06/21/06)
Much to my surprise yesterday, I got a courtesy phone call from my bank informing me that my account was five days overdrawn and I was -$139.00. Of course I asked him why and the first thing he rattled off in purchases was a $99.95 charge for VS Escapes. I immediately told him that I did not purchase that and was transfered to the disputes department. When the woman in that department answered I told her what was going on and she conference called VS.
Charles was who we dealt with and he tried to make me feel like I did something wrong. The woman from my bank, and I wish I remembered her name because she was fantastic, jumped in to my defense and afterwards she told me that sometimes you just have to put people in their place. The most disturbing information that came out of talking with VSE was that this membership was opened on December 28, 2004 then closed a few months later and then reopened on May 13th, 2005!!! All without me knowing or concenting.
Last year I was also charged $89.95 but didn't realize what it was for. Like a typical woman shopper [ :) ] I just chaulked it up to Hey I must have gone into Victoria's Secret but I don't remember what I bought!! Another wierd thing is that I have never, ever bought anything online from them and I have only called to order out of their catalogue once - but I paid with a GIFT CARD!!! How they got my debit card information is beyond me. They said that they would be crediting my account for both charges within the next three business days, but we'll see how long it actually takes them. My advice when using gift cards with them is to never give out banking or credit card info even if they ask just in case you don't have enough on your gift card which is the only way I can think that I might have given them the information.
Last year from the first charge I had to pay a fee from my university because I couldn't pay my tuition on time. This time around, I became overdrawn, raking up daily overdraft fees, overdraft protection fees, a monthly service charge for being overdrawn, and regular overdraft fees to the tune of $175.
Lindsay of Newport News VA (06/13/06)
I am just another victom of VS escapes. A few days ago I checked my bank statement and saw there was a $99.95 charge. I nor my husband had made the purchase. I called my bank and made a fraud claim. I then did I sreach on the internet for vsescapes and it brought me straight to here. I called 1888-256-3941. I spoke to someone, explained my problem. He tried his best to keep me from canceling. I refused every offer he gave me. He finally cancelled it and said my full refund would be on my bank statement in 2 days. The thing is is I havent even ordered anything from VS in over a year! And the guy said I signed up for the membership over the phone! I really dont think I am that stupid to sign up for a membership as stupid as this! They trick you to sign up. I cant believe how many complaints about this there is on here!
Me and my husband had to go days with our debit cards on hold until the claim went though. I now have to dip into our savings to cover us until the next pay check!
Karen of So Burlington VT (06/01/06)
I just received an overdraft notice from my bank for a transaction through my debit card in the amount $99.95. I was charged $20.00 by my bank for an overdraft fee. Since I did not know what this $99.95 charge was, I did an internet search of AP9*VSESCAPES and it brought me to this site. I see that I am not the only who has been a victim of this practice. I never authorized this transaction, nor do I even know what this is for.
I am out $99.95 plus the $20.00 fee my bank charged me.
Clara of Parker, CO (05/24/06)
I ordered online from Victoria’s Secret about a month ago and boom, I am landed with a hundred dollar program that I never signed up for. I called VS and after holding for about 10 minutes, I talked to Katrina who said I would be credited the money back within 2 to 3 business days…
I suppose I’ll just have to see…but I still have a $33 overdraft fee that could be used for so many other things. I mean seriously, I only get paid $10 a hour!
Tabitha of Lakeland, FL (05/17/06)
I ordered from Victoria's Secret about a month ago. I noticed I have a charge to my Discover card of $99.95, from VSEscapes. I don't have an account so I called Discover to dispute the account.
I then went online to reserach the VS Escapes and came across your website with all of these complaints.
Tabitha of Lakeland FL (05/17/06)
I ordered from Victorias Secret about a month ago. I noticed I have a charge to my Discover card of $99.95, from VSEscapes. I called the 1-877 number, and I do not have an account. So, I called Discover to dispute the account. I then went online to reserach the VS Escapes and came across your website with all of these complaints. Is there anything anyone can do? Seems very fraudulent.
Merila of Aventura FL (05/17/06)
I, apparently along with many other women, was just charged that stupid $99.95!! I just called to cancel. And you don't get to talk to anyone to complain either. Their number is 1-888-256-3916. Who wants rewards for paying 100 bucks? This is so stupid. I am careful while ordering online. I didn't click on any of these rewards b.s options. This company should be sued for giving so many people problems!
I need that $99.95 for rent!
Crystal of Houston, TX (05/06/06)
I ordered something from Victoria Secret and they charged me $99.95 on my debit card for some travel discount thing that I never signed up for. I didn't know what happened so I called the 800 number on my bank statement. I replaced my credit card because I will not pay for something that I don't know anything about.
It isn't right. Obviously Victoria Secret is desperate to be pulling tricks like this. I will never buy anything from them ever again.
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Michele of Tonawanda NY (05/03/06)
I ordered from Victorias Secret about a month and a half ago. Suddenly I have a charge to my Visa card of $99.95, from VSEscapes. I called the 1-800 number, and alas, I don't have an account with them, so nothing can be done there. I proceeded to call Capital One the same day, and requested the dispute to go through. Hopefully it will be removed from my credit card in the next week or so, as it has put an overlimit fee on my account, which I requested be removed as well. The question is... once this is all taken care of, am I going to be charged by VSEscapes again come this time next year? A $100.00 fee is something that I'm not too thrilled about receiving out of the blue.
Kristeen of Point Pleasant, NJ (05/02/06)
I was looking over my credit card statement and noticed a charge for $99.95 for VSESCAPES. I found out that I have been enrolled in a travel program through Victoria Secret. I called and the representative was very nice about removing the charge and cancelling the membership, but I wonder how many people would not have called or even noticed.
I definitely did not sign up for this and when I asked how I got this charge, "Doug" told me that I must have used a coupon for $15 that automatically enrolled me in the program, or that I clicked on something on the internet. I think this kind of business practice should be illegal.
Helen of New York, NY (04/21/06)
Recently, I noticed a charge for $99.95 from VS Secret Travel on my credit card. I did not order anything recently, so I was curious about the charge. Upon researching VS Secret Travel, I realized that Victoria Secret had illegal charge my credit card without my written and clear consent.
My research also uncovered that Victoria Secret engages in this practice on a REGULAR basis.
Coni of Green Cove Springs, FL (04/19/06)
I called American Express to stop the charge because I have NO IDEA what that "escapes" thing is?? I purchased some things from Victoria Secret a month ago and somehow this happens. I was informed that they will credit my $99.95 in two business days.
Trish of Long Beach CA (04/18/06)
In checking my bank acct. online, I noticed a charge I was unaware of from VS Escapes for $99.95. I purchase from Vitoria's Secret fairly often, so I knew what it was when I saw it. But I never ordered this membership. I called the number that shows on the purchase and was told I ordered it when I made a Victoria's Secret purchase. I told the rep. I hadn't order it and would never order a membership like that. I was given her name and ID number and assured my membership would be cancelled. I'll be watching.
Patricia of Hollis Hills, NY (04/17/06)
I have recently been a victim of the VS Escapes scam that Victoria Secret has been responsible for. I noticed $99.95 missing from my checking account because a deduction was made from an unknown transaction.
I had to call my bank to find out who is responsible for this unknown purchase. They informed me it was a marketing company known as VS Escapes. It seems to me that Victoria Secret is keeping their customers from a serious secret and this should be dealt with ASAP.
Tracy of Baltimore, MD (04/16/06)
Escapes of VS orgin has charged my VS Card (aka Angel Card) for membership. I did not order the service! I am being charged $99.95 for a membership I did not order, did not receive, and most importantly DO NOT WANT. I am also paying interest on this charge.
I intend to report this to my state district attorney's office, local news, CNN, all major networks, all my politicians, and send an email to everyone I know telling them of my ordeal.
Dianeof Roselle IL (04/13/06)
I placed an order online through Victoriassecret.com and a month later a charge of $99.95 shows up on my billing statement for something called vs escapes.......which I never signed up for!I am college student currently living on my own from paycheck to paycheck....I may not be able to pay my cell phone bill now that I have paid Victorias Secret $100!!!
Mary of Rochester NY (04/13/06)
I received my Victoria's Secret bill and noticed a charge on it for $99.95 for VS Escapes. I called the number listed to inquire. The "wait time" was outrageous so I called VS customer service. They were of no help. The person from VS customer service was of no help. She insisted I ordered the VS Escapes. I bit the bullet and called the VS Escapes number back. I sat through a litany of recordings. I finally spoke to Lisa (ID#16503). She also tried to tell me I ordered the service. I firmly requested an immediate refund. She assured me it would be done in 2 days. We shall see. I am a "regular" VS customer. This experience put a bad taste in my mouth for the company.
Angie of Westland, MI (04/13/06)
I recently used my Victoria's Secret credit card to make an online purchase and when offered to enroll in Escapes, I specified that I was NOT interested. However, I received a bill a month later with a $99.95 charge.
I called the number listed on my bill and they informed me that I signed up for the membership and recieved a thirty dollar rebate and a membership package. I did NOT receive either and did not sign up for any membership with Escapes. I argued with the employee for over 20 minutes, who finally admitted there must have been a mistake and that she would credit my card within 24-48 hours.
A month later, the charge was still on my bill. I called AGAIN, and was told there was never a documented call from me calling to cancel, just a call that I called to CONFIRM my membership. I was infuriated. Unfortunately to my mistake, I could not remember who I had spoken to, but clearly she had lied to rip me off.
I used to love shopping there, but will never, ever make another online purchase.
Megan of New Braunfels, TX (04/12/06)
Like many others, I was automatically enrolled (unbeknownst to me) in their travel program. The membership costs $99.95 per year. I only knew that I was "enrolled" when I checked my bank account online and saw the charge.
Of course, when I called the 888 number (found on another complaint on this site), they were unable to locate my account with them. How come they didn't have any trouble finding it to charge my cc#? Anyway, 2-3 business days later and I should have a refund.
Here's the BEST part, if you order online (anything from VS) you have to "uncheck" the membership box...or you'll be charged the membership fee (30 days later) again. MAYBE ONLINE SHOPPING WITH VS ISN'T WORTH IT.
Greis of Houston TX (04/12/06)
I purchased some merchandise from VS in March, a month later (4/11/2006) my credit card was billed in the amount of $99.95 for the Victoria's Secret Escapes Program. I did not authorize this charge and I specifically remember checking no when asked to join. I called in to the 888 number and spoke to a gentleman named Bruno. He was very helpful and has cancelled the membership that I never authorized. He said that the charge will take 2 days to be creditted back to my account. Thank goodness it's cancelled.
Tingting of Boston, MA (04/09/06)
Like many other people, I made a purchase from Victoria's Secret from it's website and one month later I noticed a $99.95 fee on my credit card from AP9*VSESCAPES. I didn't sign up for any membership so I don't know how to get out of the deceitful program.
I just came here from a foreign country last year for graduate study and am not very fluent at complaining via telephone calls. I did the internet search on the 888-256-3916 phone number and found out that many people had the same problem about VS Escapes.
Larry of Phoenix, AZ (04/08/06)
My daughter made a purchase from VS online, with my help. When the popup came up to enroll in the Escapes, we specifically entered NO. They charged my credit card $99.95 over a month later.
I called and spoke to "Andrew" who said we did authorize it, and received $30 on the order. We had not, and had not ordered it.
When I asked them to immediately reverse the charge, Andrew became very rude and said not to talk down to him. He said he would get to it when he had a chance.
I have sent a dispute to my credit card company.
Michelle of Norfolk VA (04/07/06)
Like many other people, I clicked the online option to recieve information about VS Escapes, in return for a $30 rebate cupon. Well, Victoria's Secret did a terrible job of explaining the consequences of that option. It was not made clear that I was enrolling in a program with a cancelation option. Even once I recieved my "Membership" package in the mail, I was confused as to whether it was giving me the option to enroll, or was I already enrolled and needed to cancel? Apparently they already enrolled me.
After reading all the fine print, I called to cancel, and that was a fairly easy process, fully automated with no sales people pressuring me not to cancel. But, the rebate offer requires you to put your membership # on it, so I'm now wondering, will I even get my $15 rebate because my membership was cancelled the day after I got it?
Shannon of Holly MI (04/06/06)
I recently made a purchase from VS and a month later I received a charge on my card for $99.95 for VS Escapes. I never authorized this charge. I called the customer service at VS Escapes and the cs rep told me to "call back in 2 hours" and hung up the phone. I've purchased many items from VS but I will never order from them again.
Mandi of Waynesboro VA (04/05/06)
I ordered from VS online at the end of Feb. Yesterday (4/4/06) my husband noticed a charge of $99.95 from VSEscapes. I didn't authorize this when I made my purchase. I got the information in the mail, called the number and the lady that I talked to said that the account was canceled on 3/4/06. Ok, GREAT!!! NOT!!!! The charge still came out, so I called them again last night and talked to someone named Thang that didn't speak English very well at all.
He tried to tell me that it was my fault, it was past the 30 day trial, and that I must have called a different company. Well I got infuriated and cussed him out. He threatened to hang up on me and I told him if he did, he would be hearing from my lawyer personally, much less the Better Business Bureau. I told him that I wanted to speak to his supervisor and he said flat out NO! So I cussed some more. I finally got him to supposedly cancel the account and refund my money within 2 business days. I told him that if there wasn't a refund in 2 business days, that I was personally calling my lawyer and BBB after him!
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Jeff of Huntsville AL (04/04/06)
I made a purchase on victorassecret.com for Valentine's Day. A little over a month later, I noticed a charge of $99.95 from AP9*vsescapes, with an "888" number attached to it. Fortunately I had enough money to cover the charge and avoid an overdraft fee, but I was still angry (obviously!). I called the number, and spoke with Melanie. Melanie was actually pleasant to deal with; she tried to sell me the program, as I am sure she is instructed to do. We then chatted about Canada for a while, and she then told me they would refund my money within 2 business days. I thanked her, but still felt wary.
I then came across this website, and followed the instructions re: getting your money back through letters and complaints. I phoned my bank and made them aware of the situation, and faxed them an official complaint. After I did all this, and my money was indeed credited back to my account, and I *believe* it was credited back before the letters I wrote the CEO of "VSEscapes" arrived at his office (thanks consumeraffairs.com for the address and sample letter!). They were slick to take my money without permission, but they did refund it without much issue.
I'm glad I didn't have to take any further than a couple of phone calls and a letter or two. I consider myself to be a savvy computer user, but they managed to get me with this "deal"; I didn't recall seeing ANYTHING saying I was signing up for this lovely program. I also certainly wouldn't care about getting a discount to Victoria's Secret, because I shop there once a year. Victoria's Secret has lost another customer.
Jan of Rochester, NY (04/02/06)
At the beginning of the month I purchased bathing suits from Victoria Secrets and used my VS credit card. I paid my credit card online and I noticed a charge of $99.95 on 3/27/06 listed as a third party charge.
I called the Escapes progam to find out what it was. I told the customer service representative that I did not enroll in this program. He was extremely rude but after a few minutes arguing he finally said they would credit my account.
Kristin of Raywick, KY (03/31/06)
Today my bank notified me of a overdraft on my account. After looking at my statements, I saw a $99.95 charge from Victoria's Secret. To my astonishment, Victoria's Secret used my debit card information to take the $99.95 from my account on March 13th. The representative I spoke to told me it was for a membership fee.
I did not authorize for any money to be taken out of my account for any reason! Also, when it was taken out, I was not contacted by anyone. Why was I automatically signed up for this membership?
Victoria Secret's Escapes has refunded my money for the amount they stole from my account, but now I am stuck with $140 over draft fee.
This leads me to believe I have made a poor choice in becoming a Victoria's Secret customer.
Alison of Burkburnett, TX (03/29/06)
I ordered some merchandise online about a month ago. I looked at my Visa online statement today and noticed there was a $99.95 charge for VS Escapes.
I remembered receiving a postcard in the mail and throwing it away so I called my bank and they gave me a phone number to dispute the charge.
The lady at VS Escapes said whoever ordered online must have taken the free trail. I explained it was me and I did not take any offers. I told her this charge was not authorized and needed to be refunded. She said it will take 2 business days. So we will see.
Hilary of San Diego, CA (03/29/06)
VSE charged $99.95 to my account without my authorization about 30 days after I made a purchase online. There was not anything telling me that this was going to happen.
When I called to cancel and reverse the charge they asked for my VSE member number. I told them I never got any info regarding this program, much less a member number.
Victoria of Burtonsville MD (03/28/06)
I checked my checking account online almost every day just to keep track of things. I noticed today a charge for $99.95 from AP9*VSESCAPES. I sent a message to my bank to find out what it was, and when I didn't hear back I called. They looked it up and said it was Victoria's Secret Travel. I didn't even know they did travel! Luckily, my bank had a number and said I could call them back if I had any issues with VS getting my money back.
When I called, I got a live person (shock!) and told him I didn't know what this was or why I was being charged. He actually started explaining it to me- "Well you went online and made a purchase...". I was infuriated, talking to me like a child. Turns out, a purchase I made on Victoria's Secret website had a 'rebate' offer on it that I either clicked on or didn't click on (whichever would have said no) and that's what this was. A yearly membership fee. The guy seemed almost irritated that I called to cancel, cause after all, I must had ordered this.
He finally relented to giving my money back (next 1 or 2 billing cycles- aka when we feel like it) but not without making me feel stupid. Victoria's Secret has either gotten unscrupulous with its business practices, or their 'affiliate' is giving them a bad name. Won't shop online with them anymore.
Ashley of Huntingtown, MD (03/28/06)
I placed an order through Victorias Secret website and rec'd my order within 5 business days.
I have a habit of checking my account daily, making sure everything is in order. A month passed and when I checked my account balance $99.95 was charged to my account by a AP*8 VSESCAPES. I did not recall charging my account by this unknown provider. I called the number given on my account summary and was told it was under the terms and agreement when ordering through Victorias Secret.
I asked them to cancel and reimburse me of the charge. I am still awaiting this problem to be resolved.
Lisa of Brookeville, MD (03/27/06)
I purchased a bathing suit online and a page appeared asking me to answer 5 survery questions to be eligible for $30 towards my next purchase. I quickly filled them out and hit enter. Next thing I know, it says all of my personal information INCLUDING MY CREDIT CARD NUMBER was being given to some marketing company who will charge me $99.95 after some free trial (that will only be discontinued if I contact them requesting it).
Of course, I was stunned and immediately tried to call the marketing company. Every time, the wait was well over 5 minutes or they were closed or nobody answered.
Michelle of Jacksonville, FL (03/27/06)
I recently ordered some items from Victoria Secret's on line website and used my Visa check card. I noticed on my bank account today there was a $99.95 charge and a $28.00 nsf fee because I only had $6.00 in my account at the time this went through. Although my bank covered the charge since it was considered a credit purchase I am still liable for the nsf fee and the $99.95 charge so my account became negative $121.
Apparently this site is a travel agency that gives you rewards and discounts on your travel expenses. I contacted the number on my bank statement and was told I signed up for this when I made my purchases. There is no way I did this - 1st I would not have been interested in it and 2nd I would have had to fill out a wealth of information to set up an account with them.
When I called they could not even find that I had an account number or any of my info which leads them and me to believe that I did not do it.
I will NEVER purchase anything on line from Vic Secret ever again. I am a mother of 3 children and $99.95 is a week of groceries for us.
Corutney of West Bloomfield MI (03/26/06)
I've been a loyal customer to Victoria's Secret for as long as I remember. One day when checking out, I checked a box online that asked if I'd like to receive promotional information from Victoria's Secret Escapes. I like to travel, so I thought, why not. They send me something, but as with most of my junk mail, I tossed it aside. Imagine my surprise when a few months later a $99.95 charge appeared on my credit card bill. It turns out by checking this box, I had technically applied for a trial membership, and when that trial went away, I was automatically charged!
I called the customer service line (closed--what a shocker), and will be working to get my money back. I'm completely surprised. I've never had an experience like this with Victoria's Secret. I'll get my money back if I can, and NEVER do business with them again!
Elena of Cinnaminson, NJ (03/21/06)
Beware! When you make a purchase on Victoria's Secret website, you can be enrolled in the VS Escapes program without even knowing it, and after 30 days billed $99.95 for a year's membership.
Advice to get out - call toll free number 888-256-3916, but do not listen to the menu, pressing 0 or # will get you to the live person. The person will try to convince you, that you enrolled on your own will and nothing can be done, and you should forget your money and "enjoy" the program benefits. Be strong, and refuse to "take advantage" of the wonderful benefits (unless you really want it) and ask to talk to the manager. The representative will tell you there is no reason to do it, but if you will continue to insist on talking to the managenment - you might get your money back!
I was promissed to get my refund in 2 business days, and hope they did not lie to me again. Good luck to another scam victim of VS Escapes!
Kris of Philadelphia, PA (03/20/06)
I recently made a purchase and then received a charge for $99.95 for VS Escapes. I never authorized this charge. I called the customer service at VS Escapes and the cs rep said I authorized this charge via the web. I did not. I was informed the charge would be reversed in 2-3 days.
I will never order an item from VS again. I have purchased many items thru the web and no other company has ever automatically charged me for some membership.
Corina of Montesano, WA (03/20/06)
I was charged $99.95 on my ATM visa for a membership to Victoria Secret Escapes that I did not permit or request. I did not even know of the transaction until I looked over my bank statement.
I am a single mom going to college and this was especially devastating to me because I have a VERY limited income. This prevented me from being able to buy books for school.
Jenni of Sandpoint ID (03/16/06)
I placed an order online with Victoria's Secret on February 8th, 2006. I ordered 4 bras, and 3 pairs of panties. I did not agree to any special promotion, and did not speak to anyone that asked me verbally to agree to VS Escapes. I logged on to check my checking account balance today, only to find a strange charge for $99.95. I called the number listed, and Jeanine #25866 answered the phone.
Clearly an overseas phone bank, both the customer service rep and the supervisor (who I asked to speak to after Jeanine was incredibly rude) had a strong middle eastern accent. Neither were helpful, and Jeanine even went so far as to say "I'm sorry you've changed your mind but you've already received the $30 in coupons, I can offer you a reduced price today though". I thought I was going to go through the roof, and ended up yelling at her to get a supervisor immediately, then told the supervisor the same thing. I am on my way to change my checking account number because obviously Victoria's Secret cannot be trusted. This is appalling behavior for such a well known corporation, I certainly hope someone will act on these horrible practices.
Solange of Miami FL (03/10/06)
In January, I made a purchase of around $30 for clothing on victoriassecret.com. I was charged, received the clothing in the mail, and thought nothing else of it. Two months later, on March 8, I notice that my bank account is overdrawn, and that the reason is a charge of $99.85 for something labeled "VS ESCAPES". I called the number listed, and when I asked why my credit card was charged for something I did not buy, the representative began telling me about the great benefits of the program, such as "travel specials" and 30% off future Victoria's Secret purchases.
I proceeded to tell him that I did NOT want the program, nor had I EVER enrolled in the program. He then explained to me that when I made my purchase in January, I had authorized them to enroll me in the program! I told him that was not true, and to cancel my membership immediately. He told me that he cancelled my membership.
I called Victoria's Secret (the number he gave me), and was told that I must have enrolled in the offer. I asked the representative how exactly I enrolled, and he vaguely told me that on the checkout page at the final stages of my order, there is a part on there where it says that if I continue, I will be enrolled. I asked him if the $99.85 was included in my checkout total, which they claim is the final amount that will be charged to your credit/debit card. He admitted that it was not. I asked him if he didn't find this deceitful, and he tells me: " As long as it is somewhere on the page, legally, we have the right to do that. Next time, read everything on the page".
I was so upset, that I hung up and called back, hoping to get another, more helpful, customer service rep. The woman that I spoke with next, although she was pleasant, told me that if I had enrolled in the program over the phone, they could find the recorded conversation and if it proves that I did not enroll, then they would refund my overdraft fees. But unfortunately (more like conveniently), since I enrolled on the website, they could not prove that I DIDN'T enroll, therefore, I am not entitled to the compensation.
Amy of Warwick RI (03/09/06)
Last week a suspicious charge in the amount of $99.95 showed up on my husband's Visa credit card, which was on file with VictoriasSecret.com for clothing purchases. The "product" charged was something called "Escapes". We assume that this is a partner company that Victoria's Secret is allowing to run promotions affiliated with Victoria's Secret online and through representatives via your catalog sales and service. I assure you, I NEVER inquired or consented to purchase this "Escapes", whatever it is, for any price!
We could not believe that SOMEONE illegally charged this to our credit card - WITHOUT the slightest communication about an offer or anything about it. I never saw anything on the website describing this, nor did I receive a phone call or an email regarding it. The only promotions I am interested in are regular sales/markdowns of Victoria's Secret merchandise or FREE SHIPPING! This fraudulent activity associated with your company is truly depressing; we are always reluctant to have our credit card information saved online, and this is why! All the retail websites pledge that consumer information is secure, but look what happened with your company.
Tiffany of Dallas TX (03/09/06)
I purchased items from Victoria's Secret Online and a charge hit my credit card for $95 about a month later. To my knowledge, I had not signed up for any program that would lead in a charge following my initial purchase.
Melanie of New York NY (01/31/06)
When I was paying at Victoria's Secret the woman asked me if I would like discounts on any future purchases. She told me that I just had to sign in for the discount card called the "Angel Card", but she never mentioned that it really was a credit card. She told me that I would be getting a provitional card and that I will receive the new card by mail. Months later I got a call saying I owed $180 in the Victoria's Secret account and that if I didn't pay for it right away my future credits will be affected. I had no idea since I never got any card by mail or any statement.
Angela of Sunnyvale TX (01/12/06)
I've made an online purchase for clothing and was charged $99.95 to my credit card for some membership that I've no interest in and never agreed to.
I have to dispute this charge through my credit card and wait and hope that it's credited. I will never shop online Victoria's Secret and will be hard pressed to enter a store even. I'll also let every friend of mine know exactly what type of business thy're running.
Brena of Phoenix, AZ (10/25/05)
I placed an order online at Victoria's Secret and was asked if I wanted a free trial of Victoria's Secret Escapes. I was supposed to receive some information via email. I waited a week and when I did not receive anything I did some research. I contacted the company to cancel the trial but every time I called the "system was down" and couldn't access any account information.
After the 3rd try with the same response I demanded a supervisor. The lady I was speaking with said that the supervisor's computer was also down so there was nothing he could do either. I still demanded and got a supervisor. He immediately canceled my "trial" membership.
Kind of funny how that all worked. Hopefully "Omar" really cancelled my membership!
George of Windsor Mills, MD (11/28/05)
Last year I ordered several items from Victoria's Secret. After making my order I was asked if I wanted to join the Escapes program. After hearing the advantages of the program I elected to accept the offer.
After about a month I contacted the company to cancel the membership. One year later I received a bank notice that my credit card was charged again for the amount of $99.95. I contacted the number on my bank statement and was informed that the membership had been cancelled. I said, "If the membership was cancelled, why was my credit card charged?" To my surprise he went into a selling spill on how much I travel and was willing to give me $40 worth of free coupons for their program!
Obviously, once your credit card has been used at Victoria Secrets they will continue to charge your card for services that you do not want.
Emily of Natchitoches LA (11/3/04):
Last April I ordered a dress off of Victoria's Secret's website. Before processing the order they asked if I wanted to join Escapes. I just thought that I would receive little things in the mail, and not that you paid $89.95 a year! When I received my bank statement I called the number listed for Escapes. The number did not work, and there were no listings of it on the web! I had forgotten about this until yesterday when I ordered something from VS.com, and they asked me if I wanted to join Escapes. I quickly printed out the number and am going to call.
I was barely 18 at the time I signed up for Escapes, they should tell you the fees involved before taking $90 out of your checking account. I was 18, I didn't (and still do not) have $90 to throw away at something I know nothing about!
Danyelle of Woodland CA (8/4/04):
I have been a loyal customer of Victoria's Secret for a number of years. Recently I made a purchase for apparel through their website, as I have done many times before. Today I noticed that there is a charge to my account for $89.95 from MWI*VS ESCAPES TRAVEL 888-256-3916. I called the number and the automated system answered that it was Victoria's Secret Travel. I was never able to speak with a live person through this number.
I then called my bank and was told that this was not fraud but a dispute. Apparently if you have ever used your credit card or ATM/VISA card with a company in the past, they are free to do as ever they please with your account and the only recourse you have is to dispute the charges. This is a whole other issue!
However, I was informed that US Bank did set a protocol for handling issues with all MWI complaints. This also disturbs me that this problem is so prevalent that they need to set up a procedure for them but have done nothing to protect their customers from such charges such as requiring a signed acknowledgement before honoring them. I then called Victoria's Secret and informed them how unhappy I was with them and discovered that this MWI*VS ESCAPES TRAVEL is an "affiliate company". In other words they are an independent company that is supplying some sort of initiative to what was formally to me a reputable company, to provide them with the credit card information that I had entrusted to them.
They transferred me over to this "affiliate company" that was very obviously not even in this country. I discovered that they had apparently mailed me something that looks very much like junk mail that is usually tossed that stated if I did not contact them they would assume that I wanted their "service" and would bill my credit card. Surprise - they did just that! Now I am aware of the try this for 30 days risk free scam and would never fall for that. But this is an entirely new tactic that seems to me should be highly illegal! "We have against your will obtained pertinent financial information from a company you trusted and will now begin dipping into your money that you depend on for survival as we please unless you tell us we can't." At this point it is too soon to tell whether I will have my money returned.
I have been out of work for 4 weeks. At the time I became unemployed unexpectedly, I had enough money to survive at our normal standard for 2 weeks. I am a single mother with four teenage children still at home and am the only means of support for them. I do not receive any assistance from anyone (i.e. deadbeat dad or any agency). We have all had to make sacrifices to get through this period of time. Although I have a position beginning in 1 week, it will still be 2 weeks after that before I receive any further income. This has been a horrible blow for someone who has been struggling to be self sufficient and independent for 10 years and did well to be able to put enough aside to survive during my employment issues. That $89.95 made the difference between successfully being able to get through this hardship or failing.
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